By Olivia Hunt, Community Editor
The Odyssey (2026) is on everyone’s minds after Christopher Nolan’s long-awaited mega-blockbuster drop. Whilst we aren’t based in Ithaca, Troy, or any distant Greek island, and aren’t torturously rowing through Poseidon’s punishing storms (even when the rain might feel like it), Bristol and its surroundings is actually home to a variety of Classical references. Why don’t you take your own classical Odyssey of Bristol? (And make sure you’re obeying Zeus’ Law/xenia).
Abona, Sea Mills
To immerse yourselves in Classical culture, why not visit the remains of a Roman villa!
In the heart of Sea Mills, along 'Roman Way' lies the foundations of a Roman villa. Excavated in 1934 by archaeologist Alfred Selley (as explained on a nearby signpost), the building has been interpreted by historians as a workshop. Just a few minutes away from the foundations, and next to the station is believed to be the port of which Abona was used for. There is also probably some connection between Abona and the naming of the river Avon.
I only came across this place, funnily enough, when running the Bristol Half Marathon (note the classical word) as the Portway route comes pretty close to it. Who needs a ship, anyway!
Whilst this location is way less dramatic than Nolan’s intricate IMAX-shot set designs, visiting takes you closer to a sense of the ancient built environment, step on the same ground as classical civilisation!
The Cyclops' Cave: Giant's Cave, Clifton
Above the Avon Gorge, otherwise explored by UMBC members (secretly Odysseus’ shipmen), is the Clifton Giant's cave. Whilst Polyphemus has not yet been sighted, nor has his specially curated cheese been found in its abyss, the cave gives you brilliant views (when you use both eyes) of the suspension bridge.
Statue of Neptune, St Augustine’s Parade
In the same strand of Polyphemus, and much closer to campus, you can find the statue of Neptune by Joseph Rendall by the harbourside. If you, unlike Odysseus, would like to apologise to the water god and have a safe journey home, here’s your chance! The statue has been moved around the city a couple times, so many people must have been attempting to apologise on behalf of Odysseus.
I'd recommend doing this before boarding a Bristol ferry, or embarking on a night out to Thekla. You never know what will happen a couple Thatcher's down, Polyphemus in Homer's edition didn't end up very well, did he.
The Chocolate Quarter, Keynsham
Did you know that the Chocolate Quarter is actually an old Roman town?
When Brunel was building the train line, he lay rails through an old Roman house and found a mosaic. The mosaic was originally displayed in Keynsham Station but has since been moved. Another mosaic found in Keynsham, called 'The Orpheus Pavement' is now displayed in Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.
In Temple Meads station, however, there is a mosaic of Brunel displayed, perhaps nodding towards his classical discovery. Fancy a bit of classical-like art but with a Bristol twist? Not as beautiful as Penelope's endless weaving but it... brightens the station underpass.
Circe's animals: St Werburgh’s Farm & Stoke Park
Fancy seeing some of Circe’s undisguised creations? There are plenty of farm animals open to visitation at the non-profit St Werburgh’s Farm located near Ashley Down station. Unlike Odysseus’ crewmates, these animals are forever transfixed as pigs, rightfully so.
If you take a short walk to Stoke Park from the farm, there are some of Circe’s goats by the Purdown Gun Battery. They are friendly and welcoming but don’t forget who they truly are and why they have been transformed.
Bristolclahsoc
After your day (or 20 years) of travelling across Bristol, why not meet like-minded people at the University of Bristol Classics society! As advertised on their SU page, expect ‘toga parties, ancient drinking games, symposia & sacrifices’. They even do a yearly Greek play; why not enjoy some interpretations of other mythological fantasies!
Charles Hubbard
Try to remember, the Lotus Eaters reside on Castle Park, especially on Saturday afternoons when the sun is out!
Featured Image: Epigram / Olivia Hunt
Have you watched The Odyssey (2026) yet?
